A California company is recalling organic walnuts that were sold at natural food stores and coop retailers in 19 states because of an E. coli outbreak that has sickened 12 people and hospitalized seven, federal officials said. The recall came after the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention notified the company of 12 recorded illnesses that were linked to the walnuts. They were distributed at more than 300 food retailers, including Whole Foods Market, New Seasons Market and Rosauers Supermarkets, the F.D.A. An investigation is underway to determine the potential source of the contamination, the F.D.A. The company did not immediately respond to inquiries on Wednesday.

---

Persons: Gibson Organizations: and Drug Administration, Centers for Disease Control, Foods, Rosauers Locations: California, Hollister , Calif